Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne
Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 20 mins | Total Time: 30 mins
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 8 oz penne pasta (or any short pasta)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (divided)
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (cremini or button)
- 1 cup asparagus, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- Optional:
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning or dried thyme
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes for heat
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Cook the pasta:
- Boil penne in salted water until al dente (about 10-12 mins). Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the chicken:
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add diced chicken, season with salt & pepper, and cook until golden (5-6 mins). Remove and set aside.
- Cook the veggies:
- In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tbsp olive oil.
- Sauté mushrooms for 2-3 mins until softened.
- Add asparagus and garlic, cooking for another 2 mins (keep asparagus crisp-tender).
- Make the sauce:
- Reduce heat to medium-low, pour in heavy cream and stir.
- Add Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and creamy (2-3 mins).
- Season with salt, pepper, and optional herbs/spices.
- Combine everything:
- Return chicken and pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce.
- Cook for 1-2 mins until heated through.
- Serve:
- Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pairs well with garlic bread or a simple side salad.
- For extra richness, add a splash of white wine when sautéing the mushrooms.
Why You’ll Love It:
✔️ 30-minute meal – Quick, easy, and restaurant-quality!
✔️ Creamy & flavorful – The Parmesan cream sauce is irresistible.
✔️ Versatile – Swap veggies (spinach, bell peppers) or protein (shrimp, tofu).
Enjoy your Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne! 😋🍝